Go slowly.

Going slowly will help you learn how cannabis affects you. Follow these strategies to slow down your use.

Start with a small amount. Take just one drop of oil, or one or two inhalations if you’re smoking or vaping, and wait to see how you feel before using more. These amounts are enough to create a brief high for new or even occasional users.

Start with less THC. Use a product with low THC and an equal or higher amount of CBD. Click here to learn more about THC and CBD strength.

Limit your use. Using cannabis frequently, such as daily or almost every day, is risky. Limit yourself to occasional use, such as just one day a week or only on weekends.

Effects will vary by how you use cannabis and how much THC is in it:

Smoking/vaping effects can begin in seconds to minutes, and last up to 6 hours.

Under the tongue (oils) effects can begin in 5 to 30 minutes, and last up to 12 hours.

Swallowing (food/capsules) effects can begin in 30 minutes to up to 2 hours, and last up to 12 hours.

Using cannabis always has risks, but going slowly and paying attention to how you feel will lower your risk of experiencing negative effects such as confusion, nausea, anxiety or overdose.